Author: NBA Basketball News, Scores, Standings, Rumors, Fantasy Games

The 2026 NBA All-Star break offered the chance for the entire league to catch its breath, reset and look ahead to the playoffs, which – seemingly suddenly – start in two months.

The break is also giving us the chance to revisit the USA TODAY SportsTop 25 NBA player rankings for the 2025-26 season, which we published in early October.

Where did we get it right? Where did we get it wrong?

Rankings and perceived value, of course, are subjective, so we welcome the debate. But for the purposes of this list, we’re omitting star players who are likely to miss at least most of the remainder of the season due to injury – players like Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton and Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving.

More: NBA All-Star Game winners and losers: US vs World format is an upgrade

USA TODAY Sports' Top 25 NBA players, ranked

25. Paolo Banchero, forward, Orlando Magic

2025-26 stats: 21.3 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 4.8 apg

His scoring numbers and efficiency have lagged significantly, and the Magic – before Franz Wagner got hurt – often played better when he was off the floor.

Pre-season ranking: 16th

24. Jalen Duren, center, Detroit Pistons

2025-26 stats: 17.7 ppg, 10.4 rpg, 1.8 apg

With a steadily-improving mid-range jumper, his offensive game has developed. And, with his size and defensive presence down low, Duren is becoming a force for the Pistons.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

23. Lauri Markkanen, forward, Utah Jazz

2025-26 stats: 26.7 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 2.1 apg

The Jazz may not want him to play fourth quarters, but Markkanen is averaging career highs in points per game and is quickly becoming a premier inside-out threat who can stretch the floor.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

22. Jalen Johnson, forward, Atlanta Hawks

2025-26 stats: 23.3 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 8.2 apg

He’s quickly becoming one of the more versatile players in the entire NBA and is a player who impacts the game in several ways. He also often puts up monster stat lines.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

21. Karl-Anthony Towns, forward-center, New York Knicks

2025-26 stats: 19.8 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 2.9 apg

His defensive effort and propensity to fall into foul trouble often compromise his ability to be a consistent, game-changing force, but his shooting range and rebounding still make him a unique talent.

Pre-season ranking: 18th

20. Scottie Barnes, forward, Toronto Raptors

2025-26 stats: 19.3 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 5.6 apg

Now in his fifth season, Barnes is quietly becoming a consistent force on both ends. His scoring isn’t eye-popping, but he’s a play-making presence on a Raptors team that has been the biggest surprise in the East.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

19. Joel Embiid, center, Philadelphia 76ers

2025-26 stats: 26.6 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 3.9 apg

Both Embiid and the 76ers have been calculated and cautious when it comes to the soon-to-be 32-year-old’s knee issues. And while Embiid has missed his share of games, he has been very productive when on the floor. He’s not quite at his MVP levels from 2022-23, but he nonetheless remains a dominant force.

Pre-season ranking: 19th

18. Pascal Siakam, forward-center, Indiana Pacers

2025-26 stats: 26.7 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 3.9 apg

To look at the impact Siakam has had on the Pacers, all you need to do is take a quick peek at the team’s injury reports from this season. Yet, despite being the focus of opposing defenses, Siakam has been the team’s lone bright spot.

Pre-season ranking: 24th

17. Jamal Murray, guard, Denver Nuggets

2025-26 stats: 25.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 7.6 apg

During the stretches when Nikola Jokić has had to miss time, Murray has carried the Nuggets. And, after Denver lost some of its perimeter shooting with the trade of Michael Porter Jr., Murray has filled in that void, tying his career-best 3-point shooting percentage (42.5%) on a career-high 7.4 attempts per game.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

16. LeBron James, forward, Los Angeles Lakers

2025-26 stats: 22.0 ppg, 5.8 rpg, 7.1 apg

What James is doing at 41 years old does not have a precedent. He remains an impact player who can drive, make the right pass and rebound. He has lost a step, however, and isn’t as efficient with his shot and needs to manage back-to-backs. But at his age, that’s only natural.

Pre-season ranking: 8th

15. Tyrese Maxey, guard, Philadelphia 76ers

2025-26 stats: 28.9 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 6.8 apg

Perhaps the most glaring oversight of the unranked players, Maxey ranks sixth in the NBA in scoring and is proving that he’s an elite shot maker. He’s also showing that he can drag the Sixers to victories, even if Embiid is unavailable.

Pre-season ranking: unranked

14. Devin Booker, guard, Phoenix Suns

2025-26 stats: 25.2 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 6.3 apg

Although the Suns were seemingly entering an apparent rebuild, Booker’s play has helped Phoenix (32-23) become one of the surprises out West. His silky jumper and ability to orchestrate an offense has been on display following the departures of Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

Pre-season ranking: 15th

13. Jalen Brunson, guard, New York Knicks

2025-26 stats: 27.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 6.1 apg

Although the ball sometimes stagnates in his hands, it’s for a good reason; Brunson is effective in the clutch, can get to the line and has excellent understanding of body positioning and leverage. He’s also a tireless worker.

Pre-season ranking: 11th

12. Kevin Durant, forward, Houston Rockets

2025-26 stats: 25.8 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 4.4 apg

His assimilation into the Rockets hasn’t been without its hiccups, but Durant remains one of the elite scorers in the game, even at 37 years old. He’s more reliant than ever on his jumper, but it’s still lethal.

Pre-season ranking: 9th

11. Donovan Mitchell, guard, Cleveland Cavaliers

2025-26 stats: 29.0 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 5.9 apg

He still needs to dispel the notion that he cannot perform well in the postseason, and the acquisition of James Harden will only intensify that pressure. But Mitchell is a strong guard who can score at all three levels, take over games and distribute when needed.

Pre-season ranking: 10th

10. Jaylen Brown, guard, Boston Celtics

2025-26 stats: 29.3 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 4.7 apg

This season has shown what Brown can do when he’s the No. 1 threat on a team. He ranks fourth in the league in scoring, has become a nightmare matchup on defense and has willed the Celtics (35-19) all the way to the current No. 2 seed in the East, even without Jayson Tatum (Achilles) and the departures of Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porziņģis.

Pre-season ranking: 20th

9. Kawhi Leonard, forward, Los Angeles Clippers

2025-26 stats: 27.9 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3.7 apg

He was the main reason why the Clippers came back from the dead, after an abysmal start to the season. Yet, with James Harden and Ivica Zubac now gone, Leonard becomes even more important. His absolute clinic in the 2026 All-Star Game showed that he’s among the best in the world when he’s on.

Pre-season ranking: 14th

8. Stephen Curry, guard, Golden State Warriors

2025-26 stats: 27.2 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.8 apg

The greatest shooter of all-time and the player who fights hardest to get separation and space, Curry is a singular talent. He’s also the Warriors’ only hope to make a run, and Golden State’s window to win is quickly closing.

Pre-season ranking: 6th

7. Cade Cunningham, guard, Detroit Pistons

2025-26 stats: 25.3 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 9.6 apg

Somehow, Cunningham still flies under the radar relative to other stars in the NBA. Yet he is the main reason the Pistons (40-13) have had their remarkable turnaround over the last two seasons, and his command of Detroit’s offense makes him a legitimate MVP candidate.

Pre-season ranking: 12th

6. Luka Dončić, guard, Los Angeles Lakers

2025-26 stats: 32.8 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 8.6 apg

He leads the league in scoring, and he’s arguably the premier offensive player in the NBA, but he has become such a defensive liability, it’s hard to justify him being in the Top 5. Opposing teams constantly seek him out and attack him on the other end. Still, with the game on the line, or when L.A. needs a big shot, you know who’s going to take it.

Pre-season ranking: 4th

5. Anthony Edwards, guard, Minnesota Timberwolves

2025-26 stats: 29.3 ppg, 5.2 rpg, 3.7 apg

The 2026 NBA All-Star Most Valuable Player, Edwards is a threat to score from anywhere. Though it may appear as though he’s too reliant on his 3, he’s converting those at a career-high 40.2%.

Pre-season ranking: 5th

4. Victor Wembanyama, forward-center, San Antonio Spurs

2025-26 stats: 24.4 ppg, 11.1 rpg, 2.8 apg

Arguably no player impacts the game on both ends of the floor more than Wembanyama. He leads the NBA with 2.7 blocks per game and his offensive portfolio continues to evolve. His greatest asset, however, might be his competitiveness.

Pre-season ranking: 7th

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, forward-center, Milwaukee Bucks

2025-26 stats: 28.0 ppg, 10.0 rpg, 5.6 apg

His future in Milwaukee seems secure – for now – but Antetokounmpo needs to shake off nagging calf injuries that have robbed him of time on the court. He’s the best transition scorer in the world and his size, power, length and athleticism make him a nightmare to defend. His jump shot, though, is still a weakness.

Pre-season ranking: 3rd

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, guard, Oklahoma City Thunder

2025-26 stats: 31.8 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 6.4 apg

Though he was banged up headed into the All-Star break, Gilgeous-Alexander is the preeminent model of consistency in the NBA. His scoring streak of at least 20 points stands at 121 games, which is just six away from Wilt Chamberlain’s all-time record.

Pre-season ranking: 2nd

1. Nikola Jokić, center, Denver Nuggets

2025-26 stats: 28.7 ppg, 12.3 rpg, 10.7 apg

The only player this season to average a triple-double, Jokić is the most dominant presence in the entire NBA. His vision is unparalleled. His footwork and finesse under the basket is flawless. His knowledge and expertise of the game gives Denver such a massive advantage. For a lot of fans, the most frustrating part about Jokić is his apparent apathy when it comes to things like the All-Star Game. Don’t fall into that trap; he’s one of the all-time great players in history.

Pre-season ranking: 1st

Players who were ranked in the preseason Top 25, but fell off the list: Ja Morant, Grizzlies (25th); James Harden, Cavaliers (23rd); Jimmy Butler, Warriors (22nd); Evan Mobley, Cavaliers (21st); Jalen Williams, Thunder (17th); Anthony Davis, Wizards (13th).

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ranking NBA's best players, new top 25 after All-Star break

Welcome to Inside the Suns, your weekly deep down analysis of the current Phoenix Suns team. Each week the Fantable — a round table of Bright Siders — give their takes on the Suns’ latest issues and news.

Fantable Questions of the Week

Q1: What are your thoughts on the Suns’ signing of Haywood Highsmith?

Diamondhacks: In theory, “Locksmith” seems to fit Ott’s prototype (wingspan, D, 3pt%), but I’m more generally wary of 29-year-old stoppers coming off knee surgery. My second impression of Highsmith is that his name is well above average. Not up there with Jamaree Bouyea or Oso Ighodaro. But it’s still pretty fun to say. Hay-wood High-smith.

Ashton: When this was first announced, I was like, “Who?”

This is one of those questions where it would be so much easier to link writers’ articles for background research. I highly recommend Bruce Veliz’s Player Breakdown article on Highsmith, while giving JV and the commentators some credit.

So, what can I add on a slow NBA week? The guy played for Wheeling Jesuit University and was selected as a DII Player of the Year in 2018. Seriously, raise your hand if you watched one game from what is now Wheeling University. I watch a lot of college basketball, but I am not that much of a CBB savant.

The cost is low, and this is a low-risk and potentially medium-reward scenario.

In the end, it really does not move the needle that much for me. I tend to agree with commenters that size would have been nice as a backup to RO.

OldAz: I understand the fans who wanted the Suns to sign Sochan or some other released player, but I file this squarely under “In Brian Gregory we trust”. At this point, he has earned that in putting together a roster that is both fun to watch and competitive right now. This is especially true after all the skepticism and doubt thrown his way when he was chosen as GM.

As for Highsmith, while the injury history might be a concern, his potential fit as an added wing that can shoot and his playoff experience is attractive. The low cost of a 2 year deal, with what I believe is a team option, makes this a low risk, high reward type of deal. As for those who still wanted Sochan, he reminds me too much of Kelly Oubre, who was a fan favorite but was far more style than substance when he was with the Suns. Maybe in a couple of years, Sochan will be more than that, but if he were right now, then San Antonio would have placed a higher priority on re-signing him.

Rod: I like it. Sure, I would have preferred a taller, PF type, but adding another long-armed 3&D wing that can guard multiple positions is not a bad thing. No one available was likely to significantly tip the scales for the Suns, but Swiss army knife types are always great to have around to plug injury-induced holes in the player rotation and/or bring in when a particular player is just having an off night.

Q2: Were you surprised at how well Devin Booker performed in the All-Star Weekend three-point contest?

Diamondhacks: I’m surprised, even after accounting for glaring contextual differences between shooting threes in-game vs standing next to a Rack Of Balls. Mostly because Devin’s woeful .311 3FG% looks to me validated by the magnitude (not just the frequency) of his misses. There’s been very little in and out from 3, to chalk up to a little fine-tuning here or random variation there. Even his relatively open threes look kinda broken. But if he’s got balls, rack em up!

Ashton: Absolutely! I was firmly on the side of putting Book’s ankle in bubble wrap and ice and let him sit this one out. If I were a gambling man, I would have said first-round exit.

But he looked really good up to those final three shots.

But I also side with the commentators that it helps not to have a man (or two) in your face. Maybe the ASG can restructure the three-point contest next year, because they are always tweaking something, so that the final rack involves a defender.

OldAz: Not really. He has been there before and won it in 2018. The contest setting is controlled, and he can get into a good rhythm. Unlike game situations, where sometimes his 3 is less reliable, he has far less to be concerned about, and he (by design) has his shoulders square and his weight under him. I am actually more surprised that he went cold and didn’t hit one or more of his last few shots to win it again. When under control, his form is about as good as it comes (behind all-time greats like Ray Allen and Reggie Miller’s picture-perfect from 3).

Rod: No, because it’s an almost completely different setting/situation. Book is a great shooter, and with all of the contest shots being basically set shots, it shouldn’t surprise anyone. To me, it points out just how important it is to set Book up for open three attempts in games instead of counting on him to create his own opportunities. In the mid-range, he’s really good at doing that but from three…not so much. Generating open threes for Book isn’t going to be easy though as he’s still the primary focus of opponents’ defenses.

Q3: It has been reported that Houston originally offered the Suns Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. instead of Dillon Brooks for Kevin Durant, but the Suns turned down that offer and insisted on Brooks instead. If true, do you believe the Suns made the right decision?

Diamondhacks: In terms of tangible player evaluation (and regardless of Smith’s longer contractual obligation), I’d guess that most GMs coming off 36-46 would still tend to value 22-year-old Jabari Smith over Dillon (30). So much so that this seems to me more of a Governor’s initiative/preference.

Mat Ishbia was unusually outspoken this offseason about prioritizing a hungry vibe for the team over conventional industry wisdom about talent – and perhaps even wins and losses themselves. His team was going to go down fighting, annoying opponents, and now that Patrick Beverley has retired, I suppose Dillon Brooks may be the NBA’s ultimate MAT (Maximally Annoying Template).

Ashton: If you had this question on the trade between Durant and possibilities, I would have stumped for Jabari Smith Jr. over Brooks. I mean a third overall pick (2022) from a powerhouse team in Auburn at a position of need at Power Forward?

Sign me up. I have not even heard of this rumor or reporting, and I am not sure why the Suns brass would not have done this. Smith just scored his third double-double! And Houston doesn’t even really need him with KS managing the position.

This is a really tough question as Brooks has instilled the toughness culture in the Suns team and has basically been a Manimal. But how many more games do we get to see him as he simply can not stop flapping his gums. Suspension here, probably future suspensions there. This will not change.

Yeah, let’s see what the commentators have to say, but put me in the Dr. Who phone booth and take Jabari Smith Jr.

Too badthe Suns could not swing a trade for Brooks and Smith Jr.

OldAz: See my question #1 answer again. “In Brian Gregory we trust.” We have seen the folly of chasing the best talent with no consideration for chemistry or leadership. The Suns’ best seasons recently were with CP3 filling a leadership role next to Book. Despite his diminishing (although still great) skills during his time here, CP3 gave the team a heart and drive that fueled that team’s identity. The same can be said of Dillon Brooks and what he has brought this season. While there is a significant step down in talent between Smith Jr and Brooks, the impact of Brooks’ attitude and fit within Ott’s defensive first mindset has been obvious.

However, Smith Jr would seem to be a prefect fit defensively with his length and athleticism, so in the long run Suns fans could be lamenting missing out on such a pivotal piece, especially if Maluach does not develop into the 3rd piece coming back in that KD trade (I have to assume that the Green and Smith Jr version did not include additional draft picks like the Brooks version did). But even in this case, the choice of Brooks has helped establish an identity that the team was sorely lacking before this season. That chemistry and identity, along with Ott’s success, is maximizing a deep bench, will go a long way towards attracting the minimum contracts the Suns will need to maintain (and grow) this year’s success.

Rod: I remember a lot of fans voiced the opinion that they would have preferred Smith to Brooks when that trade happened and I was one of them. A young 6’11” power forward like Smith just fit the Suns’ needs better than Brooks but the culture change in Phoenix, which I give a lot of credit to Brooks for, is something that I hate to think we might have missed out on if the trade had gone down differently.

Could the team have actually turned out better with Smith rather than Brooks? It’s certainly possible but, as there’s no way to actually prove that, I’m not bothered by the way it turned out. GM Brian Gregory has done a really good job so far, and I definitely trust his judgment on roster construction matters more than my own.

As always, many thanks to our Fantable members for all their extra effort this week!

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Quotes of the Week

“This one hurt a little bit. I wanted this one bad. Wish I was defending it in Phoenix but it’ll probably be the last time I do it next year if I get the invite. I’m looking forward to it.” – Devin Booker on his performance in the 3-point contest

“No matter what, through good or bad or indifferent, his loyalty has stayed present and his love of the game has stayed present. If they had a good team, if they had a bad team, his leadership style didn’t change. His joy for the game every day, trying to get better, is admirable for sure.” – Jamal Crawford on Devin Booker

“Dillon (Brooks) is a hardworking man. He’s someone to rally behind. He’s a fierce competitor. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’d rather too competitive than to be the other way. It’s been a pleasure playing with him.” – Devin Booker

“I just don’t think we’ve been as good defensively, honestly. That’s where we got to get back to.” – Jordan Ott

“Coach Ott has done a tremendous job. He has created an environment where our guys are allowed and given permission to become the very best version of themselves. Not only as players, but as men as well.” – Brian Gregory

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Suns Trivia/History

This season, Mark Williams ranks:

– 2nd in NBA in offensive rating
– 2nd in NBA in true shooting % (69.8)
– 3rd in NBA FG% (66.5)
– 6th in NBA in win shares/48 min
– 12th in NBA in PER
– 18th in NBA in defensive rating
– 19th in NBA in total win shares

Per @bball_refpic.twitter.com/mcOUq8mxsg

— The Lead (@TheLeadSM) February 18, 2026

On February 20, 2002, the Suns traded Rodney Rogers and Tony Delk to the Boston Celtics for Joe Johnson, Randy Brown, Milt Palacio and a 2002 first-round draft pick. Although a rookie, Johnson quickly moved into the starting lineup in Phoenix playing in 29 games (27 starts) and amassed 9.6 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 3.6 APG and 0.9 SPG in 31.5 MPG.

On February 22, 1977, Alvan Adams recorded a triple-double with 47 points, 18 rebounds, 12 assists and five blocked shots against the Buffalo Braves. He is one of five players in NBA history (along with Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, Russell Westbrook and Vince Carter) to have as many as 46 points and 16 rebounds in a triple-double performance. The night before the game, Adams also ate 47 chicken wings from a local Buffalo restaurant.

On February 25, 1983, Walter Davis set an all-time NBA record when he successfully scored his first 34 points before finally missing a shot. He made his first 15 field goals and converted four straight free throws before missing a jumper with 55 seconds left in the game.

On February 25, 2019, the Suns came back from a 63-52 halftime deficit to defeat the Heat in Miami 124-121 to break the longest losing streak in franchise history (17 games).

On February 26, 1987, the Suns appointed Dick Van Arsdale as Interim Head Coach to replace John MacLeod after he was fired following a 22-34 start for the Suns. Phoenix won 14-12 under Van Arsdale, finished the season 36-46 and missed the playoffs for the 2nd consecutive season. MacLeod had been the Suns head coach since 1973 and had previously led the Suns to the playoffs nine times (and their first trip to the NBA Finals in 1976) during his thirteen full seasons as head coach.

On February 26, 1988, the Phoenix Suns, unhappy with the prospect of heading for a fourth consecutive losing season, traded All-Star forward Larry Nance and Mike Sanders to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Mark West, Tyrone Corbin and Kevin Johnson. In the exchange, Phoenix also sent the Cavaliers the 1988 first-round pick they got from Detroit for William Bedford and received the Cavaliers’ first-round choice in 1988 and their second-round choices in 1988 and 1989.

The Suns then made their third deal in two days – an exchange of small guards – as Phoenix sent Jay Humphries to the Milwaukee Bucks for Craig Hodges and their 1988 second-round draft pick.

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This Week’s Game Schedule

Thursday, Feb 19 – Suns @ San Antonio Spurs (6:30 pm)
Saturday, Feb 21 – Suns vs Orlando Magic (3:00 pm) NBA TV
Sunday, Feb 22 – Suns vs Portland Trail Blazers (6:00)
Tuesday, Feb 24 – Suns vs Boston Celtics (7:00 pm)

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This Week’s Valley Suns Game Schedule

Friday, Feb 20 – Valley Suns @ Sioux Falls Skyforce (7:00 pm)
Sunday, Feb 22 – Valley Suns @ Sioux Falls Skyforce (3:00 pm)
Wednesday, Feb 25. Valley Suns vs South Bay Lakers (1:00 pm)

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Important Future Dates

March 1 – Playoff eligibility waiver deadline
March 4 – Final day to sign players to two-way contracts
March 28 – NBA G League Regular Season ends
March 31 – 2026 NBA G League Playoffs begin
April 12 – Regular season ends (All 30 teams play)
April 13 – Rosters set for NBA Playoffs 2026 (3 p.m. ET)
April 14-17 – SoFi NBA Play-In Tournament
April 18 – NBA Playoffs begin

Good morning, it’s Thursday, February 19th. The Cleveland Cavaliers are 34-21 and finally play basketball again for the first time since last Wednesday.

A lot has happened since we last previewed a Cavs game. I totaled my car. Jaylon Tyson and Donovan Mitchell competed in All-Star weekend. And, Cleveland went a few days in a row without snowing or dipping below freezing. All in all, not too bad.

The Cavs will host the Brooklyn Nets tonight at 7 PM. Cleveland is 1-0 against the Nets this season.

Today’s Game of the Day

• Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks – 7:30 PM, Prime Video

There’s a power vacuum in the East this season. And even with the best record in basketball, the Pistons are still trying to prove that they belong at the top of the conference. A showdown with the Knicks could help them earn some more goodwill.

But, as Cavs fans know, the only way to beat the ‘regular season merchant’ accusations is to prove it in the playoffs. A win tonight won’t cement the Pistons. But it could be a fun statement game regardless.

The rest of the NBA schedule

• Indiana Pacers at Washington Wizards – 7 PM
• Atlanta Hawks at Philadelphia 76ers – 7 PM
• Houston Rockets at Charlotte Hornets – 7 PM
• Toronto Raptors at Chicago Bulls – 8 PM
• Phoenix Suns at San Antonio Spurs – 8:30 PM
• Orlando Magic at Sacramento Kings – 10 PM
• Boston Celtics at Golden State Warriors – 10 PM
• Denver Nuggets at LA Clippers – 10:30 PM

Cavs links of the day

• Cavs star Donovan Mitchell gets hilarious results in NBA Player Poll – Fear the Sword
• Predicting Cavs rotation after All-Star Break – Sports Illustrated
• Early James Harden Impressions (VIDEO) – Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show

NBA links

• Five biggest things to watch as NBA returns from All-Star Break – Yahoo Sports
• NBA Viewers Guide – ESPN

Hey look, everyone. We’re hand-wringing again!

Those mean coaches and players, fresh off a high-intensity game where their very financial livelihood is dependent, are bullying the poor, misunderstood clowns from the stands just trying to post their latest TikTok and chase social cred, that’s all.

Or as we like to say in these most wonderful United States, storming the (insert your playing surface).

Here’s what I call it: a world of no rules. 

Not to mention reckless, dangerous and a false sense of security.

Yet with all of that, and even after another dolt from the stands shoved a phone in the face of Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg seconds after a loss to rival Iowa, and screamed at him; even after Hoiberg tried to knock the phone from said dolt, missed and his swing connected with an Iowa staffer in the handshake line, we refuse to end this nonsense with clear and unambiguous rules. 

Save the cash: Kansas State is embarrassing itself not to protect basketball, but help football

Bracketology: Who is rising in latest March Madness predictions

If you storm the court (or field) before players and officials have exited, you’ll be arrested and lose ticket privileges forever. Period.

pic.twitter.com/kIxSZtqLuL

— Certified Ball Knower 🇺🇸 (@CrtfdBallKnower) February 18, 2026

Instead, university presidents have decided to fine each other. The ACC fined North Carolina $50,000 earlier this month when its fans stormed the court after beating rival Duke, and the Big Ten will no doubt fine Iowa for its latest breach of rules. 

The same North Carolina that is currently fueling its football NIL to the tune of $20 million. That 50K might be a bridge too far, baby.

But as the NCAA (also, collection of university presidents) has shown decade after decade, having rules and enforcing them are two distinctly different things.

This isn’t a matter of want, it’s a mater of will. 

Know why the NFL doesn’t have problems with field storming? Because the most successful sport in the history of the planet doesn’t put up with it.

There’s a police presence, and there are rules. There’s no gray area about what happens when you enter the field of play at an NFL stadium. 

You’ll spend the next few hours in the local lockup, for starters. And just might get a shoulder pad to the solar plexus by one of 100-plus players on the field before the cops toss you in the back of a wagon.

College sports has decided to fine the universities, not the actual perpetrators. College sports has decided to fine each other, and move more fungible money between schools within the conference, instead of targeting the offenders. 

I’m shocked, absolutely shocked, something much worse hasn’t happened on one of the many court and field stormings. Because the law of averages says it will, and when it does, college sports will do what it does best. 

Feign disbelief, and reactively make sweeping changes at the horror of it all. 

Here’s a novel idea: Try proactive steps to eliminate the problem. Not a dopey fine, or an announcement over the PA system. 

This isn’t about the “tradition” of storming the field, or running on the court at a buzzer-beater. This is a few hundred students on the field with phones lifted high, recording for prosperity. 

Or Instagram. Whichever comes first. 

This isn’t about eliminating what makes college sports special, or the purity of college sports over homogenized professional sports. No one is taking away your precious look-at-me moment. 

Just making you wait three minutes so players and officials can exit the joint. Hell, we’ll throw a countdown clock with a horn into the equation, so everyone can run on the field or floor and get stupid at the same time. 

TikTok to your heart’s content, everybody. 

Or we can keep doing dumb, and the next incident won’t be so simple and eventually forgettable.

The next incident might be much closer to what happened three years ago, when Alabama wideout Jermaine Burton took a swing at a coed who ran by and yelled something at him after Tennessee beat the Tide in overtime. 

Some player or coach somewhere will directly connect at some point, and when the clown holding the phone hits the deck and is seriously injured, we’ll scream and yell about it for weeks, post about it on social media and demand change. 

When we knew the answer all along. 

There are rules, and there are consequences for those who don’t follow rules. Despite what you may have heard, that’s not a foreign concept.

Coaches ask players to compete like a pack of wild dogs on the court and field, expending every ounce of energy like you’re livelihood depended on it. Because now, in the new era of NIL, it does.

But don’t mind clowns with their phones, picking at the fresh wound during your lowest moment of the week or year. 

They’re just kids, and it’s tradition.

There are no rules. 

Matt Hayes is the senior national college football writer for USA TODAY Network. Follow him on X at @MattHayesCFB.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: College basketball court stormings don't need to stop, just wait a minute

CHONBURI, Thailand (AP) — Nasa Hataoka shot a 7-under 65 Thursday on the Siam Country Club Old Course and was tied for the lead after the opening round at the LPGA Thailand, the first of three tournaments in Asia in consecutive weeks.

Hataoka, who was runner-up at the 2021 U.S. Women’s Open, has won five individual LPGA tournaments and two in the International Crown team event.

She was tied Thursday with Thailand's Chanettee Wannasaen. Gemma Dryburgh, who opened her round with an eagle and three birdies, was a stroke behind with a 66 and level with Somi Lee and Hye-Jin Choi.

“I think my tee shots and iron shots were pretty good today, and that’s why I was able to create so many birdie chances,” said the 27-year-old Hatoaka.

Top-ranked Jeeno Thitikul and Lydia Ko shot 67s and were in a group of 10 tied for sixth. Defending champion Angel Yin had a 69.

The 22-year-old Thitikul first played her home LPGA tournament in Thailand when she was 14.

“I couldn’t believe like time flies so fast," she said. “I mean, yesterday I just sitting on the coach in the hotel room and imagine I couldn’t believe how far that I have been come from 14 to now.”

Nelly Korda won for the first time in 14 months without having to hit a shot when the LPGA's season-opening Tournament of Champions was reduced to 54 holes on Feb. 1 because of wind and cold that made the Lake Nona course in Florida unsuitable for a final round.

World second-ranked Korda is not in Thailand and won't be at the next two tournament stops in Singapore and China — she's skipping the early Asia swing for the third consecutive year.

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AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Graham Ike had 22 points and No. 11 Gonzaga cruised to an 80-59 victory over San Francisco on Wednesday night.

Ike, the leading scorer in the West Coast Conference, has scored 20 or more in eight consecutive games. That matches the school record shared by Adam Morrison and Derek Raivio, both in 2006.

Mario Saint-Supery added 14 points and six assists for Gonzaga (26-2, 14-1), which holds a one-game lead in the league standings over Saint Mary's and Santa Clara. Emmanuel Innocenti had 12 points and eight rebounds, while Jalen Warely scored 11.

The Bulldogs beat the Dons for the 35th straight time, dating to 2012.

Tyrone Riley IV had 16 points for San Francisco (15-14, 7-9) in the final regular-season matchup between the programs before Gonzaga moves to the revamped Pac-12 next season.

Ike, the reigning WCC player of the week, sputtered with his shot most of the night and had to score nine points over the final five minutes to keep his streak going.

The game was played at Chase Center, home of the NBA's Golden State Warriors.

Both teams got off to a slow start.

San Francisco missed 11 of its first 15 shots and committed seven turnovers in the opening 10 minutes but still led 17-14 because of its rebounding and defense.

The Bulldogs went scoreless for five minutes late in the first half before Davis Fogle got them back on track. The freshman guard scored five points, including an emphatic dunk that led to a three-point play, as part of a big run that helped Gonzaga to a 41-29 lead at halftime.

Up next

Gonzaga hosts Pacific on Saturday.

San Francisco hosts Santa Clara on Saturday.

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KOLKATA, India (AP) — West Indies completed the T20 World Cup group stage undefeated after dismissing Italy for 123 and winning by 42 runs on Thursday.

Italy finished its maiden World Cup appearance with plaudits after stunning Nepal and losing to England narrowly, Scotland and the West Indies.

Both teams struggled on what appeared to be a good batting pitch at Eden Gardens.

West Indies captain Shai Hope starred with 75 off 46 balls, his second straight World Cup half-century, and the next best score was Ben Manenti's 26 for Italy.

West Indies defended a sub-par 165. Italy lost three wickets in the powerplay thanks to medium-pacer Matthew Forde, and pacer Shamar Joseph limited Italy in the middle and death overs with 4-30. Joseph also took four catches.

Hope kept the West Indies from floundering, opening the batting and hitting four sixes and six boundaries until he was bowled by Crishan Kalugamage in the 16th over.

In the Super Eights, the West Indies will face 2024 champion India, 2024 runner-up South Africa, and Zimbabwe, which knocked out Australia.

"We'll have to find ways to be more forceful when the crunch time comes,” Hope said. “We have batting depth but we need to be smart. Need to be clinical with strokeplay. Need to capitalize on deliveries. (We're) in good shape going into the Super Eights.”

Italy captain Harry Manenti said he was proud of their ability to stay in the fight, notably against full members England and the West Indies.

“We haven't played the perfect game despite showing promise in moments,” Manenti said. “It's important for all associate nations to be funded and well looked after, which is tough. If we keep getting support from the ICC, if we get more cricket, we'll get more competitive. Lack of games have hurt us (but) the more we play the higher are the chances to close out games like this.”

Later Thursday

Sri Lanka chose to bat first against Zimbabwe in the day's second match in Colombo.

Afghanistan, which made the semifinals in 2024 and lost a thrilling double super over against South Africa this week, will meet Canada in its last Group D match.

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AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Since the last time these teams met, the Houston Rockets actually won a couple of games and looked like a real basketball team before the All-Star break came and, well…you know. The Charlotte Hornets finally lost a game while getting into a big fight with the Detroit Pistons. Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate are suspended for tonight’s contest due to the dustup.

Still, these teams were heading in opposite directions when the break happened. For the eternally optimistic, that should be a boon for the Rockets and trouble for the Hornets. What I remember from the first matchup between these teams was the clear difference in confidence and energy. Charlotte was playing like a team that was excited to be in the building and the Rockets looked like they just got off a 9-to-5 shift at the quarry and couldn’t wait to go home and take their shoes off.

With a win tonight, the Hornets could be the first (and maybe only?) team to sweep the Rockets this season. I expect Brandon Miller, LaMelo Ball, and Kon Kneuppel to each drop 20 tonight.

Tip-off

6pm CT

How To Watch

Space City Home Network

Injury Report

Rockets

Steven Adams: OUT

Fred VanVleet: OUT

Hornets

Coby White: OUT

Moussa Diabate: OUT

Miles Bridges: OUT

The Line (as of this post)

Hou -4.5

Check here for updates

Looking ahead because we can

Saturday in New York against the New York Knicks

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) — Seydou Traore scored 17 points and grabbed six rebounds, and Utah held off West Virginia's desperate rally and beat the Mountaineers 61-56 on Wednesday night.

Terrence Brown and Don McHenry each scored 16 points for the Utes, who never trailed and ended a seven-game losing streak. Utah (10-16, 2-11 Big 12) entered the contest have lost 12 of its last 13.

It was also Utah’s first true road victory since Jan. 15, 2025 when the Utes beat TCU, 73-65.

Reserve Chance Moore and Honor Huff scored 12 points apiece and Brenen Lorient scored 10 for West Virginia.

Both teams left points on the table via the foul line with Utah shooting 14 of 21 and West Virginia at 7 of 15.

Utah led 59-56 with 5.6 seconds left when West Virginia intentionally fouled Traore who missed both foul shots. Jasper Floyd grabbed the defensive rebound but then threw a pass out of bounds trying to connect with Huff. Brown made a pair of foul shots to seal it.

The Utes led 31-21 at halftime and used a 15-5 run to start the second half for their largest lead of the game, 41-26. The Mountaineers then outscored Utah 16-6 over a 7-minute span to get within 47-42 with 8:58 left.

West Virginia's (16-10, 7-6) NCAA Tournament hopes received a substantial blow with the home loss to Quad-3 Utah.

The Mountaineers have a win against Kansas — but in a loaded Big 12 — owns losses to ranked conference opponents Arizona, Houston, Iowa State and Texas Tech.

Up Next

Utah: Will host UCF on Saturday.

West Virginia: Travels to face TCU on Saturday. ___

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STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP) — Josh Hubbard made a program-record 10 3-pointers and scored a career-high 46 points Wednesday night as Mississippi State blew an 18-point lead and then rallied to beat Auburn 91-85.

Hubbard, a 6-foot junior, broke the previous mark of eight 3s (done six times) before halftime, making 9 of 12 from behind the arc and scoring 35 points, two more than Auburn (33), as the Bulldogs took a 16-point lead into the intermission.

Hubbard, who has scored at least 30 points in three consecutive games, also set the Mississippi State (13-13, 5-8) record for points in an SEC game, breaking Bailey Howell’s mark of 45, set against LSU on Feb. 22, 1958. Howell also holds the record for points in a game with 47 against Union on Dec. 4, 1958.

Auburn (14-12, 5-8) has lost five games in a row.

Keyshawn Hall led the Tigers with 29 points and 10 rebounds. Tahaad Pettiford scored 21 and Kevin Overton added 15 points.

Hubbard made a layup with 1:11 left and, after Hall made 1 of 2 free throws, hit a corner 3-pointer that gave Mississippi State an 85-83 lead 27 seconds later. Achor Achor blocked consecutive shots by Hall, Ja’Borri McGhee made two free throws, and Jamarion Davis-Fleming blocked a layup attempt by Overton with 14 seconds left.

KeShawn Murphy put back his own miss to give Auburn its first lead at 64-63 with 8:50 remaining.

The Bulldogs scored the first seven points and Hubbard had 13 — which included back-to-back-to-back 3s — as they jumped to a 21-6 lead about eight minutes into the game.

Up next

Auburn: Hosts Kentucky on Saturday.

Mississippi State: Plays Saturday at South Carolina.

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SAN FRANCISCO — When the Celtics face the Warriors on Wednesday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis could both face the Celtics for the very first time since their respective tenures in Boston ended last summer.

Porzingis is questionable to play against the Celtics as he continues to deal with a left Achilles tendon injury, while Horford is good to go.

How Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis have fared this season

Al Horford signed a two-year contract with the Warriors in free agency, while Kristaps Porzingis was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in a cost-cutting move.

Now, both Celtics champions will lace up against their former squad.

Both players have had somewhat underwhelming years by their own standards.

Horford is averaging 7.6 points and 4.9 rebounds in 20.6 minutes per game, while shooting 42.9% from the field and 33.8% from three. He dealt with sciatica early in the season, ultimately appearing in just 34 of the Warriors’ 55 games.

Porzingis has yet to make his Warriors debut, but he averaged 17.1 points in 17 games for the Atlanta Hawks. Porzingis was traded to the Warriors ahead of the trade deadline after an injury-riddled first-half of the season. While the Celtics and Hawks faced off twice before the trade deadline, Porzingis did not lace up for either game.

While Porzingis is questionable to play, it seems likely he’ll be suiting up. At the Warriors’ practice on Wednesday, Porzingis indicated he’s likely to make his Warriors debut on Thursday against his former squad, per the Boston Globe’s Gary Washburn.

“It’s gonna be weird, especially the first game back against Boston,” Porzingis said, per Washburn. “It’s gonna be cool, seeing all the guys again.”

Horford, meanwhile, is not on the injury report for the Warriors and thus should be good to go.

Both the Celtics, Warriors are missing key stars

For the Warriors, Jimmy Butler is out for the remainder of the season with a torn ACL, while Seth Curry (left sciatic nerve irritation) and Steph Curry (right patellofemoral pain) are also both out.

For the Celtics, the only player on the injury report is Jayson Tatum, who has yet to play this season as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon. Tatum’s potential return continues to loom, but he said last week he has yet to make a decision about lacing up this season.

The Warriors (29-26) currently hold the Western Conference’s 8th-best record, while the Celtics (35-19) have the East’s second-best record.

This one is about pride.

After his team was shellacked by the conference-leading Pistons in their two previous matchups — including a beatdown less than two weeks ago — Knicks coach Mike Brown hopes his players are fired up for Thursday’s rematch at MSG.

“Yeah, it should [mean something more],” Brown said. “They didn’t just win the game, they beat us pretty bad. So for us, and I don’t like to say that this game is more important than the next game — every game is extremely important — but there comes a certain point when you’re in competition.

“If the wins and losses are as lopsided as those two losses, that should shake you up a little bit.”

The Knicks (35-20) lost their two games against the Pistons (40-13) this season by a combined 69 points. In their Feb. 6 defeat, they shot just 35.8 percent and scored just 80 points, a season low.

It was domination, and Brown believes competitiveness should kick in for Thursday. Still, the coach reiterated that the regular-season result won’t give any indication about playoff success against the Pistons.

“At the end of the day, if we win tomorrow or win the next two games — or how many games we play them — that doesn’t necessarily guarantee that we’re going to beat them come playoff time — or vice versa,” Brown said. “I’m a firm believer in that. I’ve been around this thing too long to see — some teams go 0-4 in the regular season and still win the series. … That part doesn’t matter. It’s just about how the first two games turned out for us [and having pride in reversing that].”

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The Pistons will be without bruising centers Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren, who are suspended for their roles in a brawl last week against the Hornets.

Duren was suspended just two games, with Thursday being the second. Stewart, a repeat offender who left the team bench to confront Charlotte’s Moussa Diabaté, was suspended seven games.

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OG Anunoby, a man of few words, described in short but queasy detail the toenail removal that kept him out of four games before the All-Star break.

“It’s a lot of pain,” he said. “Once it’s removed it’s an open wound. Like it’s just flesh and raw, bloody.”

Officially, Anunoby is listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against the Pistons, but he’s expected to play after going through a full practice Wednesday.

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The 28-year-old said he didn’t know what led to the toenail problem or when it will grow back.

“I have no toenail,” he said. “I don’t know when, but it’s getting better every day. It feels better.”

The Knicks went 2-2 without Anunoby, including the ugly defeat in Detroit on Feb. 6. Against the Pistons, Anunoby is typically charged with defending Cade Cunningham.

“At that size and his skill set, you always miss that when he’s out,” Brown said. “It’s good to see him on the floor, for sure.”

Jeremy Sochan arrived with his hair dyed Knicks colors and excited to move on from his ugly ending in San Antonio. 

“Just no real opportunity, in my opinion,” Sochan said of this campaign with the Spurs before he was waived last week and signed with the Knicks. “And it is what it is. It’s a very deep team. And maybe I didn’t see eye to eye with Coach, and Coach didn’t see anything I could do for the team. 

“And it is what it is. And I’m just blessed to be in an opportunity where I can grow and blossom.”

Sochan’s availability in the buyout market would’ve been a shocker before this season, when he was coming off three campaigns of averaging more than 25 minutes and a spot on the 2023 first-team All-Rookie squad. 

But Sochan never jibed with head coach Mitch Johnson, who replaced Gregg Popovich. He was racking up regular DNPs before the All-Star break. A big hindrance to Sochan’s playing time, according to people familiar with the situation, was the 22-year-old’s poor jump shooting.

His career efficiency from deep is under 30 percent. Sochan’s defense, which had previously facilitated a large role, was uninspiring this season in limited action. 

“It’s tough. In my whole career even looking past the NBA I’ve never really been sitting on the bench and getting DNPs. So you go through a process of questioning why or what’s happening,” Sochan said. “It can get stressful. But at the end of the day, I’m from England, where basketball is not big. So I know my worth. I know what I can bring to the team, and I’m blessed that the organization here [in New York] has seen that. And I’m super excited to get a fresh slate and show what I can do.”

The Knicks were interested in Sochan at the trade deadline, according to sources, but the Spurs had no interest in their offer of Guerschon Yabusele.

So the Knicks pounced when Sochan hit the market. 

The plan is to give Sochan a chance as the backup power forward, with coach Mike Brown saying Wednesday that he wants to test the new player before the playoffs. Sochan — who often dyes his hair and settled on orange and blue before his Knicks debut — is getting a fresh start on a bigger stage.

“Very excited. The culture here, at the Knicks and New York in general, is crazy and very global. And I feel like I’m global, too,” said Sochan, who was born in Oklahoma to a Polish mother and grew up in England. “So I’m just super excited to be here and just grow with this city and the club.”

The Warriors are ready to ramp up for the stretch run, but in their first game after the NBA All-Star break, the team will be without one of its stars — but reportedly will have its new acquisition — when it plays Thursday against the visiting Celtics.

Steph Curry, who became the oldest point guard to be voted as a starter in the NBA All-Star Game on Sunday at age 37, won’t see the court after he returned to the team’s facility Wednesday night and told the training staff his “runner’s knee” prevented him from participating in a live scrimmage.

“Just wasn’t where he needed to be,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr told reporters in San Francisco. “It’s unfortunate. We’ll have an update tomorrow after he goes through his time with the training staff.”

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Curry might undergo another MRI after consulting with Rick Celebrini, the Warriors’ lead medical decision-maker. If he doesn’t play, it would be Curry’s sixth consecutive game on the sidelines.

Kristaps Porzingis, the Warriors’ high-profile addition who was acquired in a trade with the Hawks ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline, is expected to play Thursday against the Celtics. He was officially listed as questionable but told reporters he is “ready to go.”

Porzingis, 30, who was traded for guard Buddy Hield and forward Jonathan Kuminga, averaged 17.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.29 blocks in 24.3 minutes over 17 games (12 starts) this season with the Hawks.

Porzingis likely will come off the bench in his debut and play in short bursts and have relatively limited minutes, Kerr said.

Darius Acuff Jr. turned in one of the best performances of the 2025-26 college basketball season — and in Arkansas men's basketball history.

However, that was not enough for Razorbacks, who lost 117-115 to Alabama in double overtime at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, on Wednesday, Feb. 18.

REQUIRED READING: March Madness bracket tracker: Who's in, out on NCAA Tournament bubble

Acuff scored 49 points on 16-of-27 shooting from the field for the Razorbacks, marking the second-most points scored in a game this season. Only Radford's Dennis Parker Jr., who scored 53 points on a 19-of-24 shooting performance on Dec. 14, 2025, against Coppin State, has topped Acuff's single-game scoring output this season.

The points are the most by an Arkansas player in SEC play.

Acuff, who played all 50 minutes in the game, scored 22 points in the first half for Arkansas. He then followed it up with 19 points in the second half, including a 3-pointer that sent the game to overtime with 11 seconds left in regulation. He scored eight more points in the second overtime period, including three free throws to give the Razorbacks a 113-112 lead with 1:31 left in the game.

Mississippi State's Josh Hubbard also scored 46 points in a 91-85 win for the Bulldogs over Auburn on Feb. 18.

Here's a look at Acuff's full stats against Alabama on Wednesday:

Darius Acuff Jr. points today

Here's Acuff's full stat line from Wednesday's double overtime loss to the Crimson Tide:

• Points: 49
• Shooting: 16-for-27 (59.3%)
• 3-point shooting: 6-for-10 (60%)
• Free throw shooting: 11-for-12 (91.6%)
• Rebounds: 5
• Assists: 5
• Steals: 1
• Blocks: 1
• Turnovers: 1

Highest scorers NCAA in 2025-26 basketball season

Here's a look at the top 10 scoring performances in the NCAA during the 2025-26 college basketball season.

• 1. Dennis Parker Jr., Radford: 53 points (Dec. 14, 2025)
• 2. Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas: 49 points (Feb. 18)
• T-3. Dominique Daniels, Jr., California Baptist: 47 points (Jan. 24)
• T-3. Javontae Campbell, Bowling Green: 47 points (Jan. 3)
• T-3. Paul McNeil, NC State: 47 points (Dec. 17, 2025)
• T-6. Josh Hubbard, Arkansas: 46 points (Feb. 18)
• T-6. Dontae Horne, Prairie View A&M: 46 points (Feb. 14)
• T-6. Keaton Wagler, Illinois: 46 points (Jan. 24)
• 9. Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville: 45 points (Feb. 9)
• 10. Lamar Wilkerson, Indiana: 44 points (Dec. 9, 2025)
• T-11. A.J. Dybantsa, BYU: 43 points (Jan. 24)
• T-11. David Coit, Maryland: 43 points (Jan. 18)
• T-11. Michael Eley, Hampton: 43 points (Jan. 8)

Most points scored in an Arkansas game

Acuff made history on Feb. 18 with not only the highest scoring output of any Arkansas freshman ever, but also the second-most points in a single game in Razorbacks history.

According to Arkansas' record book, Acuff's 49-point outburst trails only Rotnei Clark's 51-point performance vs. Alcorn State on Nov. 13, 2009. His 49 points are also the most by an SEC player since Clark's 51-point game, according to the SEC basketball media guide.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Darius Acuff Jr. points today: How Arkansas star fared in loss to Alabama